It’s confession time – Contemporary Christian music isn’t always my first choice. Growing up in the church, I’ve heard my fair share, and sometimes it leans a bit too saccharine for my taste. However, the lineup for this particular concert was too intriguing to pass up. Stepping into the venue, the atmosphere was immediately different. No beer vendors, no constant streams of people heading to the restrooms – a refreshing change of pace. But beyond the sober and focused environment, what truly resonated was the genuine character of Michael W. Smith.
Michael W. Smith’s impact extends far beyond his music; his dedication to global needs is truly inspiring. Receiving accolades from figures like President Bush #41 and Bono, he’s recognized for his tireless work with numerous charities. He doesn’t just sing about divine love; he actively embodies it through his global outreach and embodies the spirit of many beloved Michael W Smith Songs.
Michael W. Smith performing live in Nashville.
On a local level, Smith’s commitment shines through Rocketown, a teen club he established in Nashville, Tennessee, providing a safe and positive environment for young people. His global engagement is further solidified by his role as vice chair of the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation and his passionate advocacy for child sponsorship through Compassion International. These endeavors are just a glimpse into the vast scope of his philanthropic efforts, mirroring the themes of compassion and service found in many michael w smith songs.
This concert, initially planned as a 35-year celebration with 35 hits, evolved into a massive tribute as more artists eagerly joined to honor Michael W. Smith’s enduring career and the impact of his michael w smith songs.
Ricky Skaggs delivering a heartfelt performance at the Michael W. Smith tribute concert.
For me, a standout moment was Ricky Skaggs’ rendition of the hymn “I’d Rather Have Jesus,” accompanied by the Isaacs. While Skaggs is renowned for his mandolin skills, he simply poured his heart into the vocals, delivering a sincerity that, while present in other performances, felt particularly profound. This raw emotionality resonated deeply, much like the heartfelt messages in many michael w smith songs.
Charlie Daniels passionately performing on stage at the tribute concert.
In a surprise highlight, Michael W. Smith invited Charlie Daniels to the stage for “The Devil Went Down to Georgia.” Even having witnessed this performance before, Daniels’ electrifying fiddle playing was as captivating as ever. It’s a performance that deserves a spot on any bucket list – pure, unadulterated musical energy, showcasing the diverse musical landscape celebrated alongside michael w smith songs at this tribute.
No gospel music celebration in Nashville would be complete without the presence of CeCe Winans. Her voice, remarkably powerful and clear, filled the arena as she sang “King of Glory.” Her performance was a testament to enduring talent and the timeless quality of gospel music, a genre that deeply influences michael w smith songs.
CeCe Winans singing powerfully at the Michael W. Smith 35th anniversary concert.
The concert naturally concluded with Amy Grant, Smith’s longtime duet partner. She performed her own “Love Will Find a Way” and followed with Smith’s moving “Thy Word.” The grand finale brought all the artists back to the stage for what is arguably the most iconic of all michael w smith songs, “Friends.” This collaborative performance underscored the theme of community and fellowship that permeated the entire evening and is central to the message in many michael w smith songs.
Four hours of praise and worship might not be for everyone. However, witnessing Michael W. Smith’s concert leaves no doubt about his genuine spirit, his extraordinary talent, and his profound humility. The accolades he received that night were richly deserved. Perhaps we could all benefit from incorporating a little more of Michael W. Smith’s spirit into our own lives, reflecting the positive messages found within michael w smith songs.
A complete list of performers at the 35 Years of Friends concert honoring Michael W. Smith.
The complete lineup of performances included:
Phil Keaggy, Mac Powell, Phillips, Craig & Dean, Point of Grace – “Agnus Dei”
Jason Crabb – “Love Crusade”
Ricky Skaggs with The Isaacs – “I’d Rather Have Jesus”
Zach Williams – “I’ll Stand”
David Hamilton – Instrumental
David Hamilton, Jordin Sparks, Jordan Smith – “All is Well”
Matthew West – “Go West”
Charlie Daniels – “How Great Thou Art”
Charlie Daniels with Michael W. Smith – “The Devil Went Down to Georgia”
Jars of Clay – “I’ll Lead You Home”
Rascal Flatts – “Pray for Me”
Avalon with Jay DeMarcus – “I Will Be Here”
Mark Lowry – “Face in This World”
Gatlin Brothers with Phillips, Craig & Dean – “Shine On Us”
Sandi Patty and Natalie Grant – “How Majestic”
Jim Brickman – “Love of My Life”
Michael W. Smith with original band – “Could He Be Messiah,” “Be Strong,” “You Need a Savior”
Randy Travis and Steven Curtis Chapman – “Above All”
Lee Greenwood with Wes King and sons – “There She Stands”
Brian Littrell – “Place in This World”
Michael W. Smith for MercyMe’s Bart Millard – “Secret Ambition”
Oak Ridge Boys – “Draw Me Close”
Nicole C. Mullen, Danny Gokey, Katinas, Matthew Ward, Calvin Nowell – “Crown Him with Many Crowns, ” “Easter Song”
CeCe Winans with Point of Grace – “King of Glory”
Matt Maher – “This is Your Time”
Laura Story with Francesca Battestelli – “How to Say Goodbye”
Russ Taff – “Healing Rain”
Wayne Kirkpatrick with Vince Gill – “Never Been Unloved”
Mark Hall – “I’m Waiting on You”
Tait, Matt Maher, Avalon, Wynonna, CeCe Winans – “Help is on the Way”
Wynonna – “Majesty”
Amy Grant with Michael W. Smith – “Love Will Find a Way,” “Thy Word”
All sing – “Friends”
